IPL11 to kickoff from April 7, here's the complete schedule
The much awaited season 11 of the Indian Premier League is all set to kick off from April 7, 2018 with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on the returning Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The 11th edition of the tournament will be played at nine venues across 51 days. Here's all about the schedule, venues and match timings of IPL 2018.
Double fixtures only on weekends
After opposition from the franchises, BCCI has decided not to alter match-timings. Double fixtures are scheduled only on weekends. The first match of the weekend is scheduled to begin at 4 PM and the second fixture will commence at 8 PM. A total of 44 games, during League phase, will be played at 8 PM while the remaining 12 will start at 4 PM.
Complete schedule of IPL 2018
Both the first match of the season and the final will be played at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The complete schedule can be viewed by clicking here. The sale of tickets hasn't started yet.
Pune might host two playoff fixtures
Mumbai will host the season opener, the first qualifier and the final of the cash-rich tournament. Indore will also host matches of Kings XI Punjab, in addition to the home grounds of the respective franchises. The venue for the other two playoffs is yet to be announced. Maharashtra Cricket Association is in talks with the BCCI to let them host the games in Pune.
IPL joy returns to Jaipur and Chennai
IPL will return to Chennai and Jaipur with both CSK & RR returning after serving a ban. This means M. A. Chidambaram and Sawai Mansingh stadiums will host their home games. Kings XI will play four games at Mohali and 3 games at Indore.
Which is the strongest team in IPL 11?
All the 8 franchises have built a decent squad with Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab going heavy on the bids during the auctions. Kolkata Knight Riders have the smallest squad and seem to be a little shy on experience while CSK spent the least and have the most experienced squad. The final of the 11th edition will be held on May 27.
